The overall aim of STEM for BRITAIN is to encourage, support and promote Britain's early-stage and early-career research
scientists, engineers, technologists and mathematicians who are an essential part of continuing progress in and development of UK
research and R&D.

The STEM for BRITAIN series of poster competitions and exhibitions in the House of Commons which started in 1997 came to
an abrupt halt with the untimely death in 2007 of its inspirational originator and organiser, Dr Eric Wharton.

In late 2008, the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee assisted by Mrs Sue Wharton joined together with the Royal Academy of
Engineering, the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Institute of Physics and the Society of Biology to revive the
STEM for BRITAIN events which began again in 2009.

Mr Stephen Metcalfe MP, Chairman of the STEM for BRITAIN organising group of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee,
will sponsor the event at the House of Commons, this year as a prelude to British Science Week.

In order to encourage maximum participation by early-career researchers and Members of Parliament the competition is divided
into five subject areas:

Biological and Biomedical Science

Chemistry

Physics

Engineering

Mathematics

There are 3 poster exhibitions and judging sessions during the day, each ending with a reception and prize-giving.
The competition currently attracts around 500 entrants, of whom approximately 35% are selected to present their work
in Parliament.

STEM for BRITAIN Awards are made on the basis of the very best research work and results by an early-stage or
early-career researcher together with their ability to communicate their work to a lay audience.